Minneapolis's Italian scene punches well above its weight, led by North Loop's Bar La Grassa and Red Rabbit, and grounded by neighborhood institutions like Broders' Pasta Bar, a South Minneapolis fixture for handmade noodles.
North Loop & Downtown
Bar La Grassa remains the city's benchmark for Italian small plates and pasta, while Red Rabbit keeps things casual with excellent pizza. A few blocks away, Zelo delivers a more polished, seasonal take on the cuisine that critics keep coming back to.
Top Italian Spots
Bar La Grassa
North Loop • Italian small plates
A North Loop institution celebrating the Italian art of eating and drinking, known for shareable pasta and a lively room.
Broders' Pasta Bar
Linden Hills • Handmade pasta
A beloved South Minneapolis institution for handmade pasta like spaghetti and fettuccine.
Zelo
Downtown • Modern Italian
A downtown critic's favorite known for seasonal ingredients, sharp service, and a handsome dining room.
Red Rabbit
North Loop • Pizza & pasta
A North Loop favorite for simple, well-executed Italian pizza and pasta.
ie Italian Eatery
South Minneapolis • Neighborhood spot
A South Minneapolis neighborhood spot consistently praised for authentic, from-scratch Italian cooking.
🏆 Our Picks
Best Overall: Bar La Grassa - the North Loop benchmark for Italian small plates
Best Pasta: Broders' Pasta Bar - handmade noodles, South Minneapolis since forever
Best Date Night: Zelo - seasonal, polished, downtown
Best Casual: Red Rabbit - reliable North Loop pizza and pasta
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Spin for Minneapolis ItalianFrequently Asked Questions
What are the best Italian restaurants in Minneapolis?
Some standout Italian spots in Minneapolis featured in this guide include Bar La Grassa, Broders' Pasta Bar and Zelo.
How do I find Italian restaurants near me in Minneapolis?
Use ChooseMy.Food's free restaurant picker — set your location to Minneapolis, filter by Italian, and spin the wheel for an instant pick from a top-rated nearby restaurant.
When's the best time to visit Italian restaurants in Minneapolis?
Weekday evenings and early lunch hours typically mean shorter waits at popular spots. For weekend visits, consider going early or booking a reservation where available.